CAMELFORD Leisure Centre became a community managed centre on December 12, 2012, writes Helen Pusey.

This meant that the leisure centre could be managed by local people along with their input, so all could have a say in the way the centre was run.

Manager of the leisure centre, Patrick Lucas, said: “It is great we are celebrating four years of independent management but it is clear we still need continued support from the community.”

Those that use the leisure centre are invited to become a member. Each member is a stakeholder and encouraged to get involved, however small the contribution.

Currently volunteers look after the accounts and there are directors too who all give their time and services for free. Others help with fundraising. To help maintain the building, voluntary tradesmen have been able to give their time with services like cleaning and plumbing.

This self-funded project started with no big financial backing but needs continued community support to thrive and prevent the centre from folding in the future.

Although this is a limited company, the centre runs as an industrial provident society with community benefit, which means it is not VAT registered and therefore cannot run at a profit. As a centre there are always improvements or equipment to replace but this can only happen when the community uses the centre on a regular basis.

Mr Lucas added: “All our accounts are available online so the public can see exactly how we manage. We want to be open with everyone in the community.”

At present there are ten members of staff and no backroom staff. Over the last two years the rota has been more streamlined to save money. The staff are trained not only in life guarding but how to manage reception and give friendly, professional customer service. This is a small part of their role as every member of staff needs to wear many hats, which the public does not see. They take this in their stride, which highlights their level of commitment.

All members of staff are happy for new ideas to keep the centre alive and kicking in every sense.

Aaron Botten, longest in-post employee, said: “Positive ideas are always very welcome here as it helps to sustain the leisure centre for the future.”

The centre is constantly trying to think of new events and exciting classes to encourage people through the door.

New ideas are planned for the New Year like landmark swimming and kayaking challenges to help raise funds.

The kids all day club proved extremely popular during the summer and will run again next year.

For further information visit Camelford Leisure Centre’s Facebook page and Easyfundraising.org.uk